Information reconciliation of continuous-variables quantum key distribution: principles, implementations and applications

Quantum key distribution (QKD) can provide information-theoretically secure keys for two parties of legitimate communication, and information reconciliation, as an indispensable component of QKD systems, can correct errors present in raw keys based on error-correcting codes. In this paper, we first describe the basic knowledge of information reconciliation and its impact on continuous variable QKD. Then we introduce the information schemes and the corresponding error correction codes employed. Next, we introduce the rate-compatible codes, the hardware acceleration of the reconciliation algorithm, the research progress of information reconciliation, and its application in continuous variable QKD. Finally, we discuss the future challenges and conclude.

Automated summary

This paper discusses the importance of information reconciliation in quantum key distribution (QKD) and its impact on continuous variable QKD systems. Various information schemes and error correction codes are introduced. Hardware acceleration of reconciliation algorithm and future challenges are also discussed.